Zomba City Festival. May in Zomba area. Spread 3 days across venues in the historic city of Zomba, it promises an exciting mix of arts, music and activities. All ages are welcome to this celebration of music, poetry, visual arts, theatre, fashion and more.

Lake of Stars Festival. September (usually) at Lake Malawi in various locations along the shores. One of Malawi’s most famous festivals, the Lake of Stars is an internationally recognized music and arts festival that brings together local and international musicians, artists, and performers. It takes place on the shores of Lake Malawi, offering a mix of music genres, art installations, and cultural performances, while celebrating the country’s rich culture and beautiful landscape.

Sand Music Festival. September/October in Salima, Lake Malawi. The Sand Music Festival is a popular three-day music event that attracts local and international artists. It covers a variety of music genres, including reggae, Afropop, and traditional Malawian sounds, and is one of the country’s biggest cultural events aimed at promoting Malawi as a tourist destination.

Blantyre Arts Festival (BAF). October (varies yearly) in Blantyre. The Blantyre Arts Festival is a celebration of Malawian arts, culture, and heritage, with performances ranging from traditional dance, theatre, visual arts, to modern music. It brings together artists from Malawi and beyond to promote creativity and cultural exchange, encouraging the preservation of local traditions while embracing contemporary arts.